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AI Applied Scientist

FigmaSan Francisco, CA • New York, NY • United StatesEngineering
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Salary
Not listed
Job type
Full-time
Posted
17 Dec 2025
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

The AI Applied Scientist position at Figma is an exciting full-time opportunity to lead generative artificial intelligence research and model development from a US hub or remotely across the United States. This role is ideal for an experienced machine learning professional who wants to build innovative technologies that make design tools more magical.

Role Overview

Figma is seeking an AI Applied Scientist to drive fundamental and applied research within the engineering department. The professional in this role will explore the limits of current technology to design best-in-class generative models for design domains. Responsibilities include combining first-principles thinking with industry best practices to build cutting-edge artificial intelligence systems that elevate user workflows.

Key Responsibilities

Drive fundamental and applied research in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Build state-of-the-art generative AI models using techniques such as supervised finetuning, reinforcement learning, prompt improvements, and synthetic data generation.
Partner closely with infrastructure and product engineers to integrate AI-powered features directly into products.
Collaborate with product managers and engineers to translate user feedback into clear requirements for AI systems.
Construct evaluation frameworks to measure and enhance the quality of artificial intelligence features.

Requirements

Extensive background in building generative AI features through prompt engineering and model fine-tuning in production environments.
Working knowledge of deep learning and generative AI frameworks including PyTorch, JAX, and HuggingFace.
Experience training large language models with reinforcement learning techniques such as DPO, PPO, and reward methods like GRPO or DAPO.
Minimum of 4 years of focused experience in generative AI.
Minimum of 6 years of overall experience across machine learning, natural language processing, natural language understanding, or computer vision.
Strong software engineering foundation with at least 5 years of programming experience in Python, C++, Java, or R.
Demonstrated capability in cross-functional communication and collaboration.

Nice to Have

Proven track record of planning multi-year roadmaps where short-term projects support long-term visions.
Experience mentoring or influencing senior engineers across various company organizations.
Specialized expertise in executing large-scale and distributed AI training.

Skills and Tools

Python
PyTorch
Java
C+
Computer Vision
Generative AI Frameworks
Large Language Models

Salary and Benefits

The annual base salary range for this position is $153,000 to $376,000 USD. Figma provides employee equity and a competitive compensation package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage, retirement benefits with company matching, parental leave, family planning support, mental health benefits, and paid time off. Additional perks consist of flexible sick leave, flexible paid time off for exempt employees, company recharge days, home internet and cell phone reimbursements, lifestyle spending accounts, and an annual bonus plan.

About the Company

Figma provides a collaborative platform that helps teams bring ideas to life through brainstorming, prototyping, translating designs into code, and iterating with artificial intelligence. The organization is dedicated to making design accessible to all while fostering an inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity and provides equal employment opportunities.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application directly on the official Figma careers page to be considered for this role.

Skills and tech stack

Questions candidates ask

What is the salary range for the AI Applied Scientist role?

The annual base salary range is $153,000 to $376,000 USD, supplemented by equity, an annual bonus plan, and comprehensive benefits.

Is this position remote?

Yes, this is a full-time role that can be held from a US hub in San Francisco or New York, or remotely from anywhere within the United States.

What experience level is required for this position?

Candidates need at least 4 years of experience in generative AI, along with 6 years of experience in machine learning, natural language processing, natural language understanding, or computer vision, plus 5 years of programming experience.

What technical skills and frameworks are needed?

Required skills include programming in Python, C++, Java, or R, and working with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch, JAX, and HuggingFace, alongside experience in prompt engineering and fine-tuning.

What benefits does Figma offer employees?

Figma offers health, dental, and vision coverage, retirement benefits with company contributions, parental leave, mental health support, flexible paid time off, lifestyle spending accounts, and tech reimbursements.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Figma careers page.

Apply on company site